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They keep our secrets, challenge our thinking and sometimes frustrate us terribly. But best friends are the people we know we can count on to be there with us through good times and bad. Click the links below to read how these essayists found their beliefs in a relationship with a special friend.

Most everyone says they’re for justice even if we can’t always agree on what exactly constitutes it. Is justice best defined morally or legally? How much is it rooted in fairness and equity? Who deserves it and who dispenses it? Click the links below to read how these essayists struggled with these questions as they developed their beliefs.

The original This I Believe and our revival of the series have featured a number of high-profile women working for progress in justice, equal rights, and other social issues. In honor of International Women’s Day, click the links below to learn of the beliefs that guided these prominent women.

For the original version of This I Believe, host Edward R. Murrow invited a number of stars of stage and screen to share their beliefs. With the polished voices of classically trained actors, they stepped before the microphone to tell their stories. Click the links below to hear what these Hollywood legends had to say.

In honor of millions of African Americans who have struggled through the centuries to fight for justice, fairness, and equality, we are featuring the stories of pioneers who blazed the path for civil rights, as well as others who continue to consider the role of race in America today.

The brave men and women who serve as police officers, firefighters, EMTs and emergency room personnel help us at some of our most vulnerable moments. Their experiences can inspire a deep reflection on life that leads them to some compelling beliefs. Click the links below to explore what these first responders believe about their work.

A number of prominent African-Americans were featured on Edward R. Murrow’s original This I Believe radio series. Their words helped build momentum for the civil rights movement in the years leading up to the Montgomery bus boycott, lunch-counter sit-ins and the march on Washington. Click the links below to hear their inspiring words.

Whether a true historically fabricated diner, or just a down-home restaurant that serves pie and coffee at the counter, the diner is a place where people take a break from daily life and find a bit of humanity. So order a stack of pancakes and a cup of coffee—and enjoy these beliefs inspired by gathering at the diner.

Several cultures around the world celebrate festivals or holidays to observe the act of being thankful. Historically, people gave thanks for a bountiful harvest, but today, many individuals consider it important to express appreciation for what one has on a daily basis. As we head into a new year, click the links below to learn how others have cultivated lifelong beliefs from the emotions of gratitude, thankfulness, and gratefulness.

What makes you happy? Is it the attainment of the latest gadgets or a new, bigger car? How about getting a raise at work or winning the lottery? Does money really make us happy? Click the links below to read how these essayists feel about finding happiness with what they have.

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Top 100 Essays USB Drive

This USB drive contains 100 of the top This I Believe audio broadcasts of the last ten years, plus some favorites from Edward R. Murrow's radio series of the 1950s. It's perfect for personal or classroom use! Click here to learn more.

This week’s essay

Helen Keller learned to communicate through the eyes and ears of others after a fever left her deaf and blind as an infant. The author, activist and lecturer discusses her vision of faith and how it gives her hope for the future of mankind. Click here to read her essay.